Although not the norm in Australia, haggling is a skill which comes with enormous potential savings.
According to Choice, it’s Australia’s place at the end of the consumer supply chain and lack of competition among sellers that have made for few opportunities for a culture of haggling to develop.
But with the rise of online shopping, consumers are now more informed about other markets, consumers are more informed than ever as to how and where they part with their change.
Although not the norm in Australia, haggling is a skill which comes with potential savings, that can only be realised when the skill is put to the test
In addition to the financial incentives, the art of haggling is on the rise – and can be recipe for success when conducted in the right way (pictured is a market in Bali)
Professor Harmen Oppewal from Monash University and Dr Robin Canniford of the University of Melbourne, who both specialise in marketing, collated skills which ensure success.
Among the top tips are to scope the market and see what similar deals are being offered by competitors.
Once sure of the the typical expectation, punters should start confidently and ask the seller ‘Is this your best price?’
Among the top tips are to scope the market and see what similar deals are being offered by competitors
Once sure of the the typical expectation, punters should start confidently and ask the seller ‘is this your best price?’ (pictured is a market in Bali)
Body language and facial expressions were also, unsurprisingly, lauded as important components of success.
Also recommended was taking a polite and positive approach throughout.
Offering to buy several of the same product is similarly thought to up the chances of success, as is drawing attention to unique features of the product that might make it unappealing to other buyers, don’t matter to you.
‘Saying, ‘I can go down the road’ [is] a more aggressive tactic, but there are also tactics whereby you can build relationships,’ Dr Canniford told the publication.
‘Be friendly, smile, know the market, be an expert, be prepared to walk away, take your time, build relationships and enjoy yourself.
‘It’s about a process of agreement, at the end of the day. It’s cordial.’
